NATIONAL and local candidates, as well as party-list groups, should not to take advantage of the huge crowds that are expected to gather at popular pilgrimage sites this Holy Week. Instead, observe a clean and green election campaign. So here’s an appeal to politicians and political parties: Do not politicize Holy Week religious rites. Refrain from inundating streets leading to pilgrimage sites with election posters.
Campaigning activities are forbidden by law on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. However, many candidates and parties may exploit the large throngs of pilgrims visiting religious shrines or performing penitential acts to draw attention to themselves. Or while they may not be physically present, we may find their posters all over the place as if begging for votes as the polling day nears.
Some politicians may even set up first aid and emergency response stations in mobile tents with their names and faces prominently shown, and even water stations. It leaves a bad taste in the mouth, really.
We appeal to all well-meaning politicians and groups not to politicize the faith-centered religious activities lined up for the Holy Week. If you sincerely want to help, please don’t brag about it to achieve your political ends.
On the other hand, the public must not to leave trash in churches and pilgrimage sites. Yes, littering is an environmental offense punishable under national and local laws. Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act prohibits the “littering, throwing, dumping of waste matters in public places, such as roads, sidewalks, canals, esteros or parks, and establishment, or causing or permitting the same.” Litterbugs could be fined P300 to P1,000 and/or be required to render community service from one to 15 days.
Show concern and respect to your fellow human beings and to the environment by not littering.
